McCarthy Stone hearing

An update – McCarthy & Stone Appeal Hearing

Cllrs Frances Mary Christie, Geoff Seddon and Heather Jones attended the Hearing on 21 March at Municipal Buildings. Much of the discussion focused on figures associated with building costs, the price of the land and viability – in other words whether McCarthy & Stone would be able to make a minimum 20% profit from the development.

Audlem Parish Council made a statement outlining the objections raised by the community and Paul Cawood, a resident of Little Heath Barns, spoke about the lack of sustainability in the location and other aspects of the proposal.

The Inspector, Ms Zoe Raygen, made a site visit before the Hearing and was to carry out another visit after she had heard submissions.

McCarthy & Stone asked to have an opportunity (for legal reasons) to revisit their unilateral undertaking which includes a S106 contribution towards medical infrastructure which they would submit by 4th April.

The commuted sum in lieu of the eight affordable houses which is being proposed by McCarthy & Stone is a mere £87,000 – hardly enough to pay for one affordable home. This a very small amount compared to the true cost of the 8 homes required under Cheshire East and Audlem Neighbourhood Plan obligations.

The Appeal decision is awaited, but it is not anticipated this will be received before mid-end April at the earliest.

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